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Old 23-Jan-2005, 11:06
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hela
Default correct a sentence

Dear teachers,

I am trying to find examples where sometimes we should use the subjunctive and sometimes not so would you please tell me if my sentences are coherent? Do you have a better suggestion ?

1) Given the state of the roads I will have to drive on, I would rather rent a car than borrow theirs.

2) Having discovered the states of the roads we drove on, they would rather we had rented a car than borrowed theirs.

3) It's about time she learnt to look after herself. (How would you justify the choice of the subjunctive here? Is it because one doesn't expect her to become responsible ?)

4) If you really want to send that letter off today, it's high time you went to the post office. (what about this case, is there a rational explanation for the subjunctive?)

I would be very grateful if you could answer me as soon as possible.
Many thanks,
Hela
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Old 23-Jan-2005, 11:16
Hotspur
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You wanted a speedy response, so here it is.

As Confucius said:

"Use the subjunctive properly, or else it shall become fiercer than a wolf".

You might want to bear that it in mind.
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Old 23-Jan-2005, 12:03
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shane is an unknown quantity at this point
Default Re: correct a sentence

Quote:
Originally Posted by Hotspur
You might want to bear that it in mind.

Do they teach that at Oxford?
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